Childcare Network #53

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/14/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/14/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 16, 2026, with a “Superior” classification and two (2) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only; a violation was cited for the fire inspection report. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was last updated by the center January 16, 2026. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 13, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 14, 2026, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Hedgepeth visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed and compliance was met. In space 2b I observed toddler children having supervised independent play. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having group time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. A Physical Therapist, Ms. L. Sharpe, with Milestones was observed working independently with a child from space 4; has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) and has a current qualifying letter on file, and compliance was met. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2026 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Ten (10) percent of children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. One (1) new staff file was reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. The Staff Roster was complete in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS); compliance was met. Children emergency medications and action plans were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and compliance was met. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance (November 15, 2025-November 15, 2026, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle registration. One (1) violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The last fire inspection was conducted on February 5, 2026. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that an inspection was conducted on January 15, 2026, however, the inspection conducted was not on the DCDEE Fire Inspection form. The operator must schedule and obtain a fire inspection within twelve (12) months of the previous inspection. Operator must submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one (1) week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a)). -The facility's QRIS is due by September 26, 2027; assessment is not due in 2026. -Make sure that all staff have a Works account, and that current education information is submitted to Works. The following staff do not have current Works accounts: C. Shaddha, M. Sutherland, M. Machida, A. Maner, P. Jeter, K. Hall, and D. Williams. -Continue to ensure that all Incident Reports are maintained in children's file (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .0802(e)). -The gates to the outdoor area were closed and locked while children occupied the area. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area must remain closed while children occupy the area. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(i). -Continue to rake mulch in the outdoor play area often. The depth of the loose surfacing is based on critical height of the equipment. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Licensing Supervisor, Amy Italiano (704-936-6065), Amy.Italiano@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0605 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/14/2026 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 5/14/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 16, 2026, with a “Superior” classification and two (2) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only; a violation was cited for the fire inspection report. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was last updated by the center January 16, 2026. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 13, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 14, 2026, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Hedgepeth visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed and compliance was met. In space 2b I observed toddler children having supervised independent play. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having group time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. A Physical Therapist, Ms. L. Sharpe, with Milestones was observed working independently with a child from space 4; has a current Criminal Background Check (CBC) and has a current qualifying letter on file, and compliance was met. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2026 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Ten (10) percent of children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. One (1) new staff file was reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. The Staff Roster was complete in the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS); compliance was met. Children emergency medications and action plans were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and compliance was met. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance (November 15, 2025-November 15, 2026, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle registration. One (1) violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The last fire inspection was conducted on February 5, 2026. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that an inspection was conducted on January 15, 2026, however, the inspection conducted was not on the DCDEE Fire Inspection form. The operator must schedule and obtain a fire inspection within twelve (12) months of the previous inspection. Operator must submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one (1) week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a)). -The facility's QRIS is due by September 26, 2027; assessment is not due in 2026. -Make sure that all staff have a Works account, and that current education information is submitted to Works. The following staff do not have current Works accounts: C. Shaddha, M. Sutherland, M. Machida, A. Maner, P. Jeter, K. Hall, and D. Williams. -Continue to ensure that all Incident Reports are maintained in children's file (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .0802(e)). -The gates to the outdoor area were closed and locked while children occupied the area. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area must remain closed while children occupy the area. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(i). -Continue to rake mulch in the outdoor play area often. The depth of the loose surfacing is based on critical height of the equipment. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Licensing Supervisor, Amy Italiano (704-936-6065), Amy.Italiano@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0605 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/22/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 5/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Assistant Director, Ms. Andrea Williams, assisted me with the visit. The Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth arrived during the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 20, 2025, with a “Superior” classification and five (5) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was lasted updated by the center June 27, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 21, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 22, 2025, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Williams visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed; a violation was cited for an ointment. Space 2b was observed closed. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having free choice time. The teachers were observed engaged with the children during free choice time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. An outlet cover was not covered and a violation was cited. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised outdoor play. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the 2025 Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2025 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Six (6) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a criminal qualifying letter. The Staff Roster was complete in ABCMS with staff members. Children with medications were reviewed and children with emergency medications and action plans were reviewed. Compliance was met for medications. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and the mulch surrounding the play structures were not at an appropriate depth; a violation was cited. A violation was cited for hazards. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle license tag and registration. Five (5) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was wood stored in the outdoor play area that could potentially attract vermin and pest. There was a trip hazard (cylinder block) embedded in the mulch, in the outdoor play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child (D.H.) in space 2a authorization expired May 15, 2025. .0803(12) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Staff (M.N.) qualification letter expired April 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The surfacing was not adequate; measured at approximately two (2) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) -The April 25, 2025 Administrative Action Action was observed posted. -There is broken cement pavement in the parking lot area that is in the process of being repaired; timeline for completion was May 12, 2025, however, the weather has prevented completion. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Medications must be returned to the parent after an authorization expires (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Mulch was ordered during the visit. Rake mulch often in the outdoor play areas to avoid compaction. The depth of the loose surfacing must be based on the critical height of the equipment (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). -Staff must have a current qualification letter on file. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that a staff member sent in information to be processed, and she did follow-up with the Criminal Background Check Unit, because the fingerprints were submitted. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that she was informed that the unit stated that they are behind to May 9, 2025; the ABCMS System states that the staff member is in "process." (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -Make sure that there are no trip hazards, and stored materials that could potentially attract vermin and pest in the outdoor play area. Ms. Williams stated that the stored wood was the barriers that were removed and replaced with plastic barriers around play structures. -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. -The Corrective Action Plan was emailed to the consultant during the visit. The consultant will follow-up with Ms. Hedgepeth to review the plan. Administration Action Visits will occur every four (4) to six (6) months. -Contact the NC Health and Safety Resource Center for resources such as posters and etc. https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. -Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs) are trained health professionals with education and experience in both child and community health and early care and education. CCHCs work with early care and education programs to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to achieve high quality, safe and healthy child care environments. You can contact CCHC Supervisor, Lawanda Combo, for an assigned CCHC: Mecklenburg County Health Department, 980-314-9342, lawanda.combo@mecklenburgcountync.gov. -A Preservice for Administrator form was emailed to the provider to update. Once completed, updates will be completed in Regulatory. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/22/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 5/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Assistant Director, Ms. Andrea Williams, assisted me with the visit. The Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth arrived during the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 20, 2025, with a “Superior” classification and five (5) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was lasted updated by the center June 27, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 21, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 22, 2025, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Williams visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed; a violation was cited for an ointment. Space 2b was observed closed. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having free choice time. The teachers were observed engaged with the children during free choice time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. An outlet cover was not covered and a violation was cited. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised outdoor play. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the 2025 Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2025 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Six (6) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a criminal qualifying letter. The Staff Roster was complete in ABCMS with staff members. Children with medications were reviewed and children with emergency medications and action plans were reviewed. Compliance was met for medications. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and the mulch surrounding the play structures were not at an appropriate depth; a violation was cited. A violation was cited for hazards. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle license tag and registration. Five (5) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was wood stored in the outdoor play area that could potentially attract vermin and pest. There was a trip hazard (cylinder block) embedded in the mulch, in the outdoor play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child (D.H.) in space 2a authorization expired May 15, 2025. .0803(12) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Staff (M.N.) qualification letter expired April 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The surfacing was not adequate; measured at approximately two (2) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) -The April 25, 2025 Administrative Action Action was observed posted. -There is broken cement pavement in the parking lot area that is in the process of being repaired; timeline for completion was May 12, 2025, however, the weather has prevented completion. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Medications must be returned to the parent after an authorization expires (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Mulch was ordered during the visit. Rake mulch often in the outdoor play areas to avoid compaction. The depth of the loose surfacing must be based on the critical height of the equipment (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). -Staff must have a current qualification letter on file. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that a staff member sent in information to be processed, and she did follow-up with the Criminal Background Check Unit, because the fingerprints were submitted. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that she was informed that the unit stated that they are behind to May 9, 2025; the ABCMS System states that the staff member is in "process." (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -Make sure that there are no trip hazards, and stored materials that could potentially attract vermin and pest in the outdoor play area. Ms. Williams stated that the stored wood was the barriers that were removed and replaced with plastic barriers around play structures. -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. -The Corrective Action Plan was emailed to the consultant during the visit. The consultant will follow-up with Ms. Hedgepeth to review the plan. Administration Action Visits will occur every four (4) to six (6) months. -Contact the NC Health and Safety Resource Center for resources such as posters and etc. https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. -Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs) are trained health professionals with education and experience in both child and community health and early care and education. CCHCs work with early care and education programs to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to achieve high quality, safe and healthy child care environments. You can contact CCHC Supervisor, Lawanda Combo, for an assigned CCHC: Mecklenburg County Health Department, 980-314-9342, lawanda.combo@mecklenburgcountync.gov. -A Preservice for Administrator form was emailed to the provider to update. Once completed, updates will be completed in Regulatory. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/22/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 5/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Assistant Director, Ms. Andrea Williams, assisted me with the visit. The Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth arrived during the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 20, 2025, with a “Superior” classification and five (5) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was lasted updated by the center June 27, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 21, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 22, 2025, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Williams visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed; a violation was cited for an ointment. Space 2b was observed closed. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having free choice time. The teachers were observed engaged with the children during free choice time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. An outlet cover was not covered and a violation was cited. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised outdoor play. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the 2025 Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2025 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Six (6) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a criminal qualifying letter. The Staff Roster was complete in ABCMS with staff members. Children with medications were reviewed and children with emergency medications and action plans were reviewed. Compliance was met for medications. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and the mulch surrounding the play structures were not at an appropriate depth; a violation was cited. A violation was cited for hazards. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle license tag and registration. Five (5) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was wood stored in the outdoor play area that could potentially attract vermin and pest. There was a trip hazard (cylinder block) embedded in the mulch, in the outdoor play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child (D.H.) in space 2a authorization expired May 15, 2025. .0803(12) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Staff (M.N.) qualification letter expired April 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The surfacing was not adequate; measured at approximately two (2) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) -The April 25, 2025 Administrative Action Action was observed posted. -There is broken cement pavement in the parking lot area that is in the process of being repaired; timeline for completion was May 12, 2025, however, the weather has prevented completion. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Medications must be returned to the parent after an authorization expires (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Mulch was ordered during the visit. Rake mulch often in the outdoor play areas to avoid compaction. The depth of the loose surfacing must be based on the critical height of the equipment (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). -Staff must have a current qualification letter on file. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that a staff member sent in information to be processed, and she did follow-up with the Criminal Background Check Unit, because the fingerprints were submitted. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that she was informed that the unit stated that they are behind to May 9, 2025; the ABCMS System states that the staff member is in "process." (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -Make sure that there are no trip hazards, and stored materials that could potentially attract vermin and pest in the outdoor play area. Ms. Williams stated that the stored wood was the barriers that were removed and replaced with plastic barriers around play structures. -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. -The Corrective Action Plan was emailed to the consultant during the visit. The consultant will follow-up with Ms. Hedgepeth to review the plan. Administration Action Visits will occur every four (4) to six (6) months. -Contact the NC Health and Safety Resource Center for resources such as posters and etc. https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. -Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs) are trained health professionals with education and experience in both child and community health and early care and education. CCHCs work with early care and education programs to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to achieve high quality, safe and healthy child care environments. You can contact CCHC Supervisor, Lawanda Combo, for an assigned CCHC: Mecklenburg County Health Department, 980-314-9342, lawanda.combo@mecklenburgcountync.gov. -A Preservice for Administrator form was emailed to the provider to update. Once completed, updates will be completed in Regulatory. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/22/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 5/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Assistant Director, Ms. Andrea Williams, assisted me with the visit. The Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth arrived during the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 20, 2025, with a “Superior” classification and five (5) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was lasted updated by the center June 27, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 21, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 22, 2025, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Williams visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed; a violation was cited for an ointment. Space 2b was observed closed. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having free choice time. The teachers were observed engaged with the children during free choice time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. An outlet cover was not covered and a violation was cited. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised outdoor play. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the 2025 Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2025 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Six (6) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a criminal qualifying letter. The Staff Roster was complete in ABCMS with staff members. Children with medications were reviewed and children with emergency medications and action plans were reviewed. Compliance was met for medications. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and the mulch surrounding the play structures were not at an appropriate depth; a violation was cited. A violation was cited for hazards. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle license tag and registration. Five (5) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was wood stored in the outdoor play area that could potentially attract vermin and pest. There was a trip hazard (cylinder block) embedded in the mulch, in the outdoor play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child (D.H.) in space 2a authorization expired May 15, 2025. .0803(12) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Staff (M.N.) qualification letter expired April 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The surfacing was not adequate; measured at approximately two (2) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) -The April 25, 2025 Administrative Action Action was observed posted. -There is broken cement pavement in the parking lot area that is in the process of being repaired; timeline for completion was May 12, 2025, however, the weather has prevented completion. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Medications must be returned to the parent after an authorization expires (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Mulch was ordered during the visit. Rake mulch often in the outdoor play areas to avoid compaction. The depth of the loose surfacing must be based on the critical height of the equipment (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). -Staff must have a current qualification letter on file. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that a staff member sent in information to be processed, and she did follow-up with the Criminal Background Check Unit, because the fingerprints were submitted. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that she was informed that the unit stated that they are behind to May 9, 2025; the ABCMS System states that the staff member is in "process." (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -Make sure that there are no trip hazards, and stored materials that could potentially attract vermin and pest in the outdoor play area. Ms. Williams stated that the stored wood was the barriers that were removed and replaced with plastic barriers around play structures. -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. -The Corrective Action Plan was emailed to the consultant during the visit. The consultant will follow-up with Ms. Hedgepeth to review the plan. Administration Action Visits will occur every four (4) to six (6) months. -Contact the NC Health and Safety Resource Center for resources such as posters and etc. https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. -Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs) are trained health professionals with education and experience in both child and community health and early care and education. CCHCs work with early care and education programs to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to achieve high quality, safe and healthy child care environments. You can contact CCHC Supervisor, Lawanda Combo, for an assigned CCHC: Mecklenburg County Health Department, 980-314-9342, lawanda.combo@mecklenburgcountync.gov. -A Preservice for Administrator form was emailed to the provider to update. Once completed, updates will be completed in Regulatory. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1725 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/22/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 5/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Assistant Director, Ms. Andrea Williams, assisted me with the visit. The Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth arrived during the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 20, 2025, with a “Superior” classification and five (5) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was lasted updated by the center June 27, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 21, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 22, 2025, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Williams visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed; a violation was cited for an ointment. Space 2b was observed closed. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having free choice time. The teachers were observed engaged with the children during free choice time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. An outlet cover was not covered and a violation was cited. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised outdoor play. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the 2025 Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2025 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Six (6) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a criminal qualifying letter. The Staff Roster was complete in ABCMS with staff members. Children with medications were reviewed and children with emergency medications and action plans were reviewed. Compliance was met for medications. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and the mulch surrounding the play structures were not at an appropriate depth; a violation was cited. A violation was cited for hazards. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle license tag and registration. Five (5) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was wood stored in the outdoor play area that could potentially attract vermin and pest. There was a trip hazard (cylinder block) embedded in the mulch, in the outdoor play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child (D.H.) in space 2a authorization expired May 15, 2025. .0803(12) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Staff (M.N.) qualification letter expired April 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The surfacing was not adequate; measured at approximately two (2) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) -The April 25, 2025 Administrative Action Action was observed posted. -There is broken cement pavement in the parking lot area that is in the process of being repaired; timeline for completion was May 12, 2025, however, the weather has prevented completion. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Medications must be returned to the parent after an authorization expires (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Mulch was ordered during the visit. Rake mulch often in the outdoor play areas to avoid compaction. The depth of the loose surfacing must be based on the critical height of the equipment (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). -Staff must have a current qualification letter on file. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that a staff member sent in information to be processed, and she did follow-up with the Criminal Background Check Unit, because the fingerprints were submitted. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that she was informed that the unit stated that they are behind to May 9, 2025; the ABCMS System states that the staff member is in "process." (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -Make sure that there are no trip hazards, and stored materials that could potentially attract vermin and pest in the outdoor play area. Ms. Williams stated that the stored wood was the barriers that were removed and replaced with plastic barriers around play structures. -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. -The Corrective Action Plan was emailed to the consultant during the visit. The consultant will follow-up with Ms. Hedgepeth to review the plan. Administration Action Visits will occur every four (4) to six (6) months. -Contact the NC Health and Safety Resource Center for resources such as posters and etc. https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. -Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs) are trained health professionals with education and experience in both child and community health and early care and education. CCHCs work with early care and education programs to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to achieve high quality, safe and healthy child care environments. You can contact CCHC Supervisor, Lawanda Combo, for an assigned CCHC: Mecklenburg County Health Department, 980-314-9342, lawanda.combo@mecklenburgcountync.gov. -A Preservice for Administrator form was emailed to the provider to update. Once completed, updates will be completed in Regulatory. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/22/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 5/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Assistant Director, Ms. Andrea Williams, assisted me with the visit. The Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth arrived during the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 20, 2025, with a “Superior” classification and five (5) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was lasted updated by the center June 27, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 21, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 22, 2025, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Williams visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed; a violation was cited for an ointment. Space 2b was observed closed. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having free choice time. The teachers were observed engaged with the children during free choice time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. An outlet cover was not covered and a violation was cited. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised outdoor play. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the 2025 Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2025 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Six (6) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a criminal qualifying letter. The Staff Roster was complete in ABCMS with staff members. Children with medications were reviewed and children with emergency medications and action plans were reviewed. Compliance was met for medications. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and the mulch surrounding the play structures were not at an appropriate depth; a violation was cited. A violation was cited for hazards. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle license tag and registration. Five (5) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was wood stored in the outdoor play area that could potentially attract vermin and pest. There was a trip hazard (cylinder block) embedded in the mulch, in the outdoor play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child (D.H.) in space 2a authorization expired May 15, 2025. .0803(12) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Staff (M.N.) qualification letter expired April 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The surfacing was not adequate; measured at approximately two (2) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) -The April 25, 2025 Administrative Action Action was observed posted. -There is broken cement pavement in the parking lot area that is in the process of being repaired; timeline for completion was May 12, 2025, however, the weather has prevented completion. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Medications must be returned to the parent after an authorization expires (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Mulch was ordered during the visit. Rake mulch often in the outdoor play areas to avoid compaction. The depth of the loose surfacing must be based on the critical height of the equipment (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). -Staff must have a current qualification letter on file. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that a staff member sent in information to be processed, and she did follow-up with the Criminal Background Check Unit, because the fingerprints were submitted. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that she was informed that the unit stated that they are behind to May 9, 2025; the ABCMS System states that the staff member is in "process." (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -Make sure that there are no trip hazards, and stored materials that could potentially attract vermin and pest in the outdoor play area. Ms. Williams stated that the stored wood was the barriers that were removed and replaced with plastic barriers around play structures. -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. -The Corrective Action Plan was emailed to the consultant during the visit. The consultant will follow-up with Ms. Hedgepeth to review the plan. Administration Action Visits will occur every four (4) to six (6) months. -Contact the NC Health and Safety Resource Center for resources such as posters and etc. https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. -Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs) are trained health professionals with education and experience in both child and community health and early care and education. CCHCs work with early care and education programs to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to achieve high quality, safe and healthy child care environments. You can contact CCHC Supervisor, Lawanda Combo, for an assigned CCHC: Mecklenburg County Health Department, 980-314-9342, lawanda.combo@mecklenburgcountync.gov. -A Preservice for Administrator form was emailed to the provider to update. Once completed, updates will be completed in Regulatory. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/22/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 5/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Assistant Director, Ms. Andrea Williams, assisted me with the visit. The Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth arrived during the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 20, 2025, with a “Superior” classification and five (5) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was lasted updated by the center June 27, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 21, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 22, 2025, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Williams visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed; a violation was cited for an ointment. Space 2b was observed closed. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having free choice time. The teachers were observed engaged with the children during free choice time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. An outlet cover was not covered and a violation was cited. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised outdoor play. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the 2025 Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2025 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Six (6) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a criminal qualifying letter. The Staff Roster was complete in ABCMS with staff members. Children with medications were reviewed and children with emergency medications and action plans were reviewed. Compliance was met for medications. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and the mulch surrounding the play structures were not at an appropriate depth; a violation was cited. A violation was cited for hazards. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle license tag and registration. Five (5) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was wood stored in the outdoor play area that could potentially attract vermin and pest. There was a trip hazard (cylinder block) embedded in the mulch, in the outdoor play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child (D.H.) in space 2a authorization expired May 15, 2025. .0803(12) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Staff (M.N.) qualification letter expired April 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The surfacing was not adequate; measured at approximately two (2) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) -The April 25, 2025 Administrative Action Action was observed posted. -There is broken cement pavement in the parking lot area that is in the process of being repaired; timeline for completion was May 12, 2025, however, the weather has prevented completion. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Medications must be returned to the parent after an authorization expires (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Mulch was ordered during the visit. Rake mulch often in the outdoor play areas to avoid compaction. The depth of the loose surfacing must be based on the critical height of the equipment (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). -Staff must have a current qualification letter on file. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that a staff member sent in information to be processed, and she did follow-up with the Criminal Background Check Unit, because the fingerprints were submitted. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that she was informed that the unit stated that they are behind to May 9, 2025; the ABCMS System states that the staff member is in "process." (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -Make sure that there are no trip hazards, and stored materials that could potentially attract vermin and pest in the outdoor play area. Ms. Williams stated that the stored wood was the barriers that were removed and replaced with plastic barriers around play structures. -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. -The Corrective Action Plan was emailed to the consultant during the visit. The consultant will follow-up with Ms. Hedgepeth to review the plan. Administration Action Visits will occur every four (4) to six (6) months. -Contact the NC Health and Safety Resource Center for resources such as posters and etc. https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. -Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs) are trained health professionals with education and experience in both child and community health and early care and education. CCHCs work with early care and education programs to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to achieve high quality, safe and healthy child care environments. You can contact CCHC Supervisor, Lawanda Combo, for an assigned CCHC: Mecklenburg County Health Department, 980-314-9342, lawanda.combo@mecklenburgcountync.gov. -A Preservice for Administrator form was emailed to the provider to update. Once completed, updates will be completed in Regulatory. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/22/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 5/22/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Assistant Director, Ms. Andrea Williams, assisted me with the visit. The Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth arrived during the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued September 26, 2024. The first Temporary Time Period Visit was conducted May 15, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed March 20, 2025, with a “Superior” classification and five (5) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted February 5, 2025 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPR) was reviewed and compliance was met. The EPR was lasted updated by the center June 27, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-three (93) percent as of May 21, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 22, 2025, and Child Development Schools North Carolina LLC was listed as current-active. Ms. Williams visited each indoor and outdoor space with me. Children enrolled in space 1 were preparing for outdoor play. In space 2a children under twelve (12) months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. In addition, I observed safe sleep checks, the safe sleep policy, infant feeding plans, and a daily schedule. Each crib was appropriately spaced and in good repair. Diapering creams and diapering forms were reviewed; a violation was cited for an ointment. Space 2b was observed closed. I observed the children in space 3a having supervised outdoor play. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K classroom, was observed having free choice time. The teachers were observed engaged with the children during free choice time. In space 5 I observed children having supervised independent play. An outlet cover was not covered and a violation was cited. The children in space 6 were observed having supervised outdoor play. The program was monitored with the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers, and the 2025 Item Number Listing for Child Care Centers. A copy of the AC Monitoring Checklist was provided to Ms. Hedgepeth after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, May 2025 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection, Emergency Medical Care Plan, and Safe Sleep Policy; compliance was met. The program uses an approved curriculum as required, High Reach Learning. Six (6) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the records met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. Three (3) new staff files were reviewed, and ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a criminal qualifying letter. The Staff Roster was complete in ABCMS with staff members. Children with medications were reviewed and children with emergency medications and action plans were reviewed. Compliance was met for medications. The outdoor area and equipment were monitored and the mulch surrounding the play structures were not at an appropriate depth; a violation was cited. A violation was cited for hazards. The center does provide transportation and the following was observed for compliance: Safe pick-up and Delivery statement (Posted), Child Safety Restraints and Seat Belts, Vehicle Safety Inspection and Liability Insurance, First Aid Kit in Vehicle, Emergency Information on Children. Staff/Child Ratios Maintained During Transportation according to the vehicle log. The vehicle has a current vehicle license tag and registration. Five (5) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was wood stored in the outdoor play area that could potentially attract vermin and pest. There was a trip hazard (cylinder block) embedded in the mulch, in the outdoor play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child (D.H.) in space 2a authorization expired May 15, 2025. .0803(12) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. Staff (M.N.) qualification letter expired April 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The surfacing was not adequate; measured at approximately two (2) inches. .0605(k)(1-4) -The April 25, 2025 Administrative Action Action was observed posted. -There is broken cement pavement in the parking lot area that is in the process of being repaired; timeline for completion was May 12, 2025, however, the weather has prevented completion. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Medications must be returned to the parent after an authorization expires (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Mulch was ordered during the visit. Rake mulch often in the outdoor play areas to avoid compaction. The depth of the loose surfacing must be based on the critical height of the equipment (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0605(k)(1-4)). -Staff must have a current qualification letter on file. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that a staff member sent in information to be processed, and she did follow-up with the Criminal Background Check Unit, because the fingerprints were submitted. Ms. Hedgepeth stated that she was informed that the unit stated that they are behind to May 9, 2025; the ABCMS System states that the staff member is in "process." (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -Make sure that there are no trip hazards, and stored materials that could potentially attract vermin and pest in the outdoor play area. Ms. Williams stated that the stored wood was the barriers that were removed and replaced with plastic barriers around play structures. -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. -The Corrective Action Plan was emailed to the consultant during the visit. The consultant will follow-up with Ms. Hedgepeth to review the plan. Administration Action Visits will occur every four (4) to six (6) months. -Contact the NC Health and Safety Resource Center for resources such as posters and etc. https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. -Child Care Health Consultants (CCHCs) are trained health professionals with education and experience in both child and community health and early care and education. CCHCs work with early care and education programs to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to achieve high quality, safe and healthy child care environments. You can contact CCHC Supervisor, Lawanda Combo, for an assigned CCHC: Mecklenburg County Health Department, 980-314-9342, lawanda.combo@mecklenburgcountync.gov. -A Preservice for Administrator form was emailed to the provider to update. Once completed, updates will be completed in Regulatory. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2201 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/24/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 3/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the March 18, 2025, complaint/unannounced visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. I completed a walkthrough of the center with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1, a classroom for school-age children, there were no children present. In space 2a, a classroom for infant/toddler children, I observed one (1) sleeping infant, and I observed a teacher holding an infant (rocking in a rocking-chair). There were three (3) children observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 2b was observed closed. In space 3a and space 3b, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 4 (Meck. Pre-K) were observed participating in small group time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. In space 5, a classroom for two (2) year-old and three (3) year-old children, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. A violation was cited for an outlet cover. The children in space 6, a classroom for three (3) and four (4) year-old children, were observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The following violations documented during the March 18, 2025, visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: Item #904-Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. During the visit, I did not observe any children handled roughly; violation corrected. Item #902-Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children during today's visit; violation corrected. Item #1757-A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A criminal qualifying letter was not on file for Ms. Taylor (therapist). During today's visit the therapist has a current qualifying letter on file; violation corrected. Item #1876-A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. I did not observe children yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied during the visit; violation corrected. Item #1877-A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). I did not observe any children restrained during the visit; violation was corrected. One violation was cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet cover near the classroom door was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) -On March 20, 2025, a Staff Meeting was held from 6:00-7:30 p.m.; a copy of the meeting agenda was reviewed during today's visit. Positive guidance, redirection, verbiage/tone were discussed during the meeting. Ms. Hedgepeth reviewed the March 18, 2025, visit summary with staff during the staff meeting. -Staff members have completed the online training, Foundations of Positive Guidance Training on March 20, 2025, and two (2) staff members completed the training on March 24, 2025; two (2) staff members are pending completion of the training. -An Administrative Action may be issued. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child(ren) (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -Ms. Hedgepeth inquired about the possibility of receiving an Administrative Action and she was provided the following information and the information was discussed according to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201(a-e): (a) Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. The administrative actions include: (1) a written reprimand as set forth in Rule .2202 of this Section; (2) a written warning as set forth in Rule .2203 of this Section; (3) a provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2204 of this Section; (4) a special provisional child care facility license or special provisional notice of compliance not to exceed six months and may include a limited enrollment restriction as set forth in Rule .2207 of this Section; (5) a probationary child care facility license or probationary notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2205 of this Section; (6) revocation of the child care facility license, or an order to cease operation to operate a child care facility as set forth in Rule .2209 of this Section; (7) summary suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility that results in immediate closure of the facility as set forth in Rule .2213 of this Section; (8) denial of an application or child care facility license as set forth in Rule .2215 of this Section; and (9) suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility not to exceed 12 months and results in closure of the facility on the date of the order as set forth in Rule .2206 of this Section. (b) The Division shall consider the following factors when determining whether to issue an administrative action or what type of administrative action to be issued, including: (1) the severity of the violation or incident; (2) the probability of recurrence of the violation or incident; (3) all prior administrative actions issued to the facility; (4) all prior incidents where the Division has determined that abuse, neglect, or child maltreatment occurred at the facility; (5) the operator's response to the violation or incident, including actions taken to prevent recurrence, such as revision to facility policies and procedures or additional staff training; (6) a self-report of the violation or incident was submitted to the Division by the operator; and (7) information or records received from local, State, or federal agencies relevant to the violation or incident. (c) For purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply: (1) "Pattern of noncompliance" means violations of G.S. 110, Article 7, this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10 documented during a time period of 18 months or less involving situations or incidents for which technical assistance has been provided and the operator continues to demonstrate noncompliance. (2) "Harm" as referenced in G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) means: (A) physical, psychological, or emotional injury to a child by a caregiver; (B) an act of omission or commission to a child by a caregiver that is likely to result in or that results in permanent limitations or disability; (C) sexual abuse; or (D) the death of a child. (d) In accordance with G.S. 150B-3(b) the Division shall issue a prior notice of administrative action to the operator or prospective operator regarding the determination to issue a provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, special provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, probationary child care facility license or notice of compliance, revocation of the child care facility license, order to cease operation, suspension of the child care facility license or notice of compliance, or denial of a child care facility license or notice of compliance. The operator or prospective operator shall be given an opportunity to respond in writing as to why the administrative action should not be taken. The written response shall be submitted to the Division within 15 days of receiving the prior notice of administrative action. Upon receiving a written request from an owner or operator, the Division shall grant an extension of time not to exceed an additional 15 days, so long as the request is received before the initial response time has ended. (e) The Division may issue a different type of administrative action based upon the operator's or prospective operator's written response in accordance with Paragraph (d) of this Rule. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/24/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 3/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the March 18, 2025, complaint/unannounced visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. I completed a walkthrough of the center with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1, a classroom for school-age children, there were no children present. In space 2a, a classroom for infant/toddler children, I observed one (1) sleeping infant, and I observed a teacher holding an infant (rocking in a rocking-chair). There were three (3) children observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 2b was observed closed. In space 3a and space 3b, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 4 (Meck. Pre-K) were observed participating in small group time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. In space 5, a classroom for two (2) year-old and three (3) year-old children, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. A violation was cited for an outlet cover. The children in space 6, a classroom for three (3) and four (4) year-old children, were observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The following violations documented during the March 18, 2025, visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: Item #904-Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. During the visit, I did not observe any children handled roughly; violation corrected. Item #902-Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children during today's visit; violation corrected. Item #1757-A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A criminal qualifying letter was not on file for Ms. Taylor (therapist). During today's visit the therapist has a current qualifying letter on file; violation corrected. Item #1876-A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. I did not observe children yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied during the visit; violation corrected. Item #1877-A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). I did not observe any children restrained during the visit; violation was corrected. One violation was cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet cover near the classroom door was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) -On March 20, 2025, a Staff Meeting was held from 6:00-7:30 p.m.; a copy of the meeting agenda was reviewed during today's visit. Positive guidance, redirection, verbiage/tone were discussed during the meeting. Ms. Hedgepeth reviewed the March 18, 2025, visit summary with staff during the staff meeting. -Staff members have completed the online training, Foundations of Positive Guidance Training on March 20, 2025, and two (2) staff members completed the training on March 24, 2025; two (2) staff members are pending completion of the training. -An Administrative Action may be issued. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child(ren) (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -Ms. Hedgepeth inquired about the possibility of receiving an Administrative Action and she was provided the following information and the information was discussed according to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201(a-e): (a) Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. The administrative actions include: (1) a written reprimand as set forth in Rule .2202 of this Section; (2) a written warning as set forth in Rule .2203 of this Section; (3) a provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2204 of this Section; (4) a special provisional child care facility license or special provisional notice of compliance not to exceed six months and may include a limited enrollment restriction as set forth in Rule .2207 of this Section; (5) a probationary child care facility license or probationary notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2205 of this Section; (6) revocation of the child care facility license, or an order to cease operation to operate a child care facility as set forth in Rule .2209 of this Section; (7) summary suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility that results in immediate closure of the facility as set forth in Rule .2213 of this Section; (8) denial of an application or child care facility license as set forth in Rule .2215 of this Section; and (9) suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility not to exceed 12 months and results in closure of the facility on the date of the order as set forth in Rule .2206 of this Section. (b) The Division shall consider the following factors when determining whether to issue an administrative action or what type of administrative action to be issued, including: (1) the severity of the violation or incident; (2) the probability of recurrence of the violation or incident; (3) all prior administrative actions issued to the facility; (4) all prior incidents where the Division has determined that abuse, neglect, or child maltreatment occurred at the facility; (5) the operator's response to the violation or incident, including actions taken to prevent recurrence, such as revision to facility policies and procedures or additional staff training; (6) a self-report of the violation or incident was submitted to the Division by the operator; and (7) information or records received from local, State, or federal agencies relevant to the violation or incident. (c) For purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply: (1) "Pattern of noncompliance" means violations of G.S. 110, Article 7, this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10 documented during a time period of 18 months or less involving situations or incidents for which technical assistance has been provided and the operator continues to demonstrate noncompliance. (2) "Harm" as referenced in G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) means: (A) physical, psychological, or emotional injury to a child by a caregiver; (B) an act of omission or commission to a child by a caregiver that is likely to result in or that results in permanent limitations or disability; (C) sexual abuse; or (D) the death of a child. (d) In accordance with G.S. 150B-3(b) the Division shall issue a prior notice of administrative action to the operator or prospective operator regarding the determination to issue a provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, special provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, probationary child care facility license or notice of compliance, revocation of the child care facility license, order to cease operation, suspension of the child care facility license or notice of compliance, or denial of a child care facility license or notice of compliance. The operator or prospective operator shall be given an opportunity to respond in writing as to why the administrative action should not be taken. The written response shall be submitted to the Division within 15 days of receiving the prior notice of administrative action. Upon receiving a written request from an owner or operator, the Division shall grant an extension of time not to exceed an additional 15 days, so long as the request is received before the initial response time has ended. (e) The Division may issue a different type of administrative action based upon the operator's or prospective operator's written response in accordance with Paragraph (d) of this Rule. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/24/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 3/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the March 18, 2025, complaint/unannounced visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. I completed a walkthrough of the center with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1, a classroom for school-age children, there were no children present. In space 2a, a classroom for infant/toddler children, I observed one (1) sleeping infant, and I observed a teacher holding an infant (rocking in a rocking-chair). There were three (3) children observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 2b was observed closed. In space 3a and space 3b, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 4 (Meck. Pre-K) were observed participating in small group time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. In space 5, a classroom for two (2) year-old and three (3) year-old children, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. A violation was cited for an outlet cover. The children in space 6, a classroom for three (3) and four (4) year-old children, were observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The following violations documented during the March 18, 2025, visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: Item #904-Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. During the visit, I did not observe any children handled roughly; violation corrected. Item #902-Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children during today's visit; violation corrected. Item #1757-A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A criminal qualifying letter was not on file for Ms. Taylor (therapist). During today's visit the therapist has a current qualifying letter on file; violation corrected. Item #1876-A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. I did not observe children yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied during the visit; violation corrected. Item #1877-A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). I did not observe any children restrained during the visit; violation was corrected. One violation was cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet cover near the classroom door was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) -On March 20, 2025, a Staff Meeting was held from 6:00-7:30 p.m.; a copy of the meeting agenda was reviewed during today's visit. Positive guidance, redirection, verbiage/tone were discussed during the meeting. Ms. Hedgepeth reviewed the March 18, 2025, visit summary with staff during the staff meeting. -Staff members have completed the online training, Foundations of Positive Guidance Training on March 20, 2025, and two (2) staff members completed the training on March 24, 2025; two (2) staff members are pending completion of the training. -An Administrative Action may be issued. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child(ren) (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -Ms. Hedgepeth inquired about the possibility of receiving an Administrative Action and she was provided the following information and the information was discussed according to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201(a-e): (a) Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. The administrative actions include: (1) a written reprimand as set forth in Rule .2202 of this Section; (2) a written warning as set forth in Rule .2203 of this Section; (3) a provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2204 of this Section; (4) a special provisional child care facility license or special provisional notice of compliance not to exceed six months and may include a limited enrollment restriction as set forth in Rule .2207 of this Section; (5) a probationary child care facility license or probationary notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2205 of this Section; (6) revocation of the child care facility license, or an order to cease operation to operate a child care facility as set forth in Rule .2209 of this Section; (7) summary suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility that results in immediate closure of the facility as set forth in Rule .2213 of this Section; (8) denial of an application or child care facility license as set forth in Rule .2215 of this Section; and (9) suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility not to exceed 12 months and results in closure of the facility on the date of the order as set forth in Rule .2206 of this Section. (b) The Division shall consider the following factors when determining whether to issue an administrative action or what type of administrative action to be issued, including: (1) the severity of the violation or incident; (2) the probability of recurrence of the violation or incident; (3) all prior administrative actions issued to the facility; (4) all prior incidents where the Division has determined that abuse, neglect, or child maltreatment occurred at the facility; (5) the operator's response to the violation or incident, including actions taken to prevent recurrence, such as revision to facility policies and procedures or additional staff training; (6) a self-report of the violation or incident was submitted to the Division by the operator; and (7) information or records received from local, State, or federal agencies relevant to the violation or incident. (c) For purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply: (1) "Pattern of noncompliance" means violations of G.S. 110, Article 7, this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10 documented during a time period of 18 months or less involving situations or incidents for which technical assistance has been provided and the operator continues to demonstrate noncompliance. (2) "Harm" as referenced in G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) means: (A) physical, psychological, or emotional injury to a child by a caregiver; (B) an act of omission or commission to a child by a caregiver that is likely to result in or that results in permanent limitations or disability; (C) sexual abuse; or (D) the death of a child. (d) In accordance with G.S. 150B-3(b) the Division shall issue a prior notice of administrative action to the operator or prospective operator regarding the determination to issue a provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, special provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, probationary child care facility license or notice of compliance, revocation of the child care facility license, order to cease operation, suspension of the child care facility license or notice of compliance, or denial of a child care facility license or notice of compliance. The operator or prospective operator shall be given an opportunity to respond in writing as to why the administrative action should not be taken. The written response shall be submitted to the Division within 15 days of receiving the prior notice of administrative action. Upon receiving a written request from an owner or operator, the Division shall grant an extension of time not to exceed an additional 15 days, so long as the request is received before the initial response time has ended. (e) The Division may issue a different type of administrative action based upon the operator's or prospective operator's written response in accordance with Paragraph (d) of this Rule. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1803 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/24/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 3/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the March 18, 2025, complaint/unannounced visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. I completed a walkthrough of the center with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1, a classroom for school-age children, there were no children present. In space 2a, a classroom for infant/toddler children, I observed one (1) sleeping infant, and I observed a teacher holding an infant (rocking in a rocking-chair). There were three (3) children observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 2b was observed closed. In space 3a and space 3b, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 4 (Meck. Pre-K) were observed participating in small group time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. In space 5, a classroom for two (2) year-old and three (3) year-old children, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. A violation was cited for an outlet cover. The children in space 6, a classroom for three (3) and four (4) year-old children, were observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The following violations documented during the March 18, 2025, visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: Item #904-Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. During the visit, I did not observe any children handled roughly; violation corrected. Item #902-Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children during today's visit; violation corrected. Item #1757-A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A criminal qualifying letter was not on file for Ms. Taylor (therapist). During today's visit the therapist has a current qualifying letter on file; violation corrected. Item #1876-A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. I did not observe children yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied during the visit; violation corrected. Item #1877-A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). I did not observe any children restrained during the visit; violation was corrected. One violation was cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet cover near the classroom door was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) -On March 20, 2025, a Staff Meeting was held from 6:00-7:30 p.m.; a copy of the meeting agenda was reviewed during today's visit. Positive guidance, redirection, verbiage/tone were discussed during the meeting. Ms. Hedgepeth reviewed the March 18, 2025, visit summary with staff during the staff meeting. -Staff members have completed the online training, Foundations of Positive Guidance Training on March 20, 2025, and two (2) staff members completed the training on March 24, 2025; two (2) staff members are pending completion of the training. -An Administrative Action may be issued. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child(ren) (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -Ms. Hedgepeth inquired about the possibility of receiving an Administrative Action and she was provided the following information and the information was discussed according to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201(a-e): (a) Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. The administrative actions include: (1) a written reprimand as set forth in Rule .2202 of this Section; (2) a written warning as set forth in Rule .2203 of this Section; (3) a provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2204 of this Section; (4) a special provisional child care facility license or special provisional notice of compliance not to exceed six months and may include a limited enrollment restriction as set forth in Rule .2207 of this Section; (5) a probationary child care facility license or probationary notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2205 of this Section; (6) revocation of the child care facility license, or an order to cease operation to operate a child care facility as set forth in Rule .2209 of this Section; (7) summary suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility that results in immediate closure of the facility as set forth in Rule .2213 of this Section; (8) denial of an application or child care facility license as set forth in Rule .2215 of this Section; and (9) suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility not to exceed 12 months and results in closure of the facility on the date of the order as set forth in Rule .2206 of this Section. (b) The Division shall consider the following factors when determining whether to issue an administrative action or what type of administrative action to be issued, including: (1) the severity of the violation or incident; (2) the probability of recurrence of the violation or incident; (3) all prior administrative actions issued to the facility; (4) all prior incidents where the Division has determined that abuse, neglect, or child maltreatment occurred at the facility; (5) the operator's response to the violation or incident, including actions taken to prevent recurrence, such as revision to facility policies and procedures or additional staff training; (6) a self-report of the violation or incident was submitted to the Division by the operator; and (7) information or records received from local, State, or federal agencies relevant to the violation or incident. (c) For purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply: (1) "Pattern of noncompliance" means violations of G.S. 110, Article 7, this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10 documented during a time period of 18 months or less involving situations or incidents for which technical assistance has been provided and the operator continues to demonstrate noncompliance. (2) "Harm" as referenced in G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) means: (A) physical, psychological, or emotional injury to a child by a caregiver; (B) an act of omission or commission to a child by a caregiver that is likely to result in or that results in permanent limitations or disability; (C) sexual abuse; or (D) the death of a child. (d) In accordance with G.S. 150B-3(b) the Division shall issue a prior notice of administrative action to the operator or prospective operator regarding the determination to issue a provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, special provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, probationary child care facility license or notice of compliance, revocation of the child care facility license, order to cease operation, suspension of the child care facility license or notice of compliance, or denial of a child care facility license or notice of compliance. The operator or prospective operator shall be given an opportunity to respond in writing as to why the administrative action should not be taken. The written response shall be submitted to the Division within 15 days of receiving the prior notice of administrative action. Upon receiving a written request from an owner or operator, the Division shall grant an extension of time not to exceed an additional 15 days, so long as the request is received before the initial response time has ended. (e) The Division may issue a different type of administrative action based upon the operator's or prospective operator's written response in accordance with Paragraph (d) of this Rule. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/24/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 3/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the March 18, 2025, complaint/unannounced visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. I completed a walkthrough of the center with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1, a classroom for school-age children, there were no children present. In space 2a, a classroom for infant/toddler children, I observed one (1) sleeping infant, and I observed a teacher holding an infant (rocking in a rocking-chair). There were three (3) children observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 2b was observed closed. In space 3a and space 3b, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 4 (Meck. Pre-K) were observed participating in small group time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. In space 5, a classroom for two (2) year-old and three (3) year-old children, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. A violation was cited for an outlet cover. The children in space 6, a classroom for three (3) and four (4) year-old children, were observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The following violations documented during the March 18, 2025, visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: Item #904-Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. During the visit, I did not observe any children handled roughly; violation corrected. Item #902-Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children during today's visit; violation corrected. Item #1757-A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A criminal qualifying letter was not on file for Ms. Taylor (therapist). During today's visit the therapist has a current qualifying letter on file; violation corrected. Item #1876-A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. I did not observe children yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied during the visit; violation corrected. Item #1877-A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). I did not observe any children restrained during the visit; violation was corrected. One violation was cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet cover near the classroom door was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) -On March 20, 2025, a Staff Meeting was held from 6:00-7:30 p.m.; a copy of the meeting agenda was reviewed during today's visit. Positive guidance, redirection, verbiage/tone were discussed during the meeting. Ms. Hedgepeth reviewed the March 18, 2025, visit summary with staff during the staff meeting. -Staff members have completed the online training, Foundations of Positive Guidance Training on March 20, 2025, and two (2) staff members completed the training on March 24, 2025; two (2) staff members are pending completion of the training. -An Administrative Action may be issued. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child(ren) (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -Ms. Hedgepeth inquired about the possibility of receiving an Administrative Action and she was provided the following information and the information was discussed according to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201(a-e): (a) Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. The administrative actions include: (1) a written reprimand as set forth in Rule .2202 of this Section; (2) a written warning as set forth in Rule .2203 of this Section; (3) a provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2204 of this Section; (4) a special provisional child care facility license or special provisional notice of compliance not to exceed six months and may include a limited enrollment restriction as set forth in Rule .2207 of this Section; (5) a probationary child care facility license or probationary notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2205 of this Section; (6) revocation of the child care facility license, or an order to cease operation to operate a child care facility as set forth in Rule .2209 of this Section; (7) summary suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility that results in immediate closure of the facility as set forth in Rule .2213 of this Section; (8) denial of an application or child care facility license as set forth in Rule .2215 of this Section; and (9) suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility not to exceed 12 months and results in closure of the facility on the date of the order as set forth in Rule .2206 of this Section. (b) The Division shall consider the following factors when determining whether to issue an administrative action or what type of administrative action to be issued, including: (1) the severity of the violation or incident; (2) the probability of recurrence of the violation or incident; (3) all prior administrative actions issued to the facility; (4) all prior incidents where the Division has determined that abuse, neglect, or child maltreatment occurred at the facility; (5) the operator's response to the violation or incident, including actions taken to prevent recurrence, such as revision to facility policies and procedures or additional staff training; (6) a self-report of the violation or incident was submitted to the Division by the operator; and (7) information or records received from local, State, or federal agencies relevant to the violation or incident. (c) For purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply: (1) "Pattern of noncompliance" means violations of G.S. 110, Article 7, this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10 documented during a time period of 18 months or less involving situations or incidents for which technical assistance has been provided and the operator continues to demonstrate noncompliance. (2) "Harm" as referenced in G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) means: (A) physical, psychological, or emotional injury to a child by a caregiver; (B) an act of omission or commission to a child by a caregiver that is likely to result in or that results in permanent limitations or disability; (C) sexual abuse; or (D) the death of a child. (d) In accordance with G.S. 150B-3(b) the Division shall issue a prior notice of administrative action to the operator or prospective operator regarding the determination to issue a provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, special provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, probationary child care facility license or notice of compliance, revocation of the child care facility license, order to cease operation, suspension of the child care facility license or notice of compliance, or denial of a child care facility license or notice of compliance. The operator or prospective operator shall be given an opportunity to respond in writing as to why the administrative action should not be taken. The written response shall be submitted to the Division within 15 days of receiving the prior notice of administrative action. Upon receiving a written request from an owner or operator, the Division shall grant an extension of time not to exceed an additional 15 days, so long as the request is received before the initial response time has ended. (e) The Division may issue a different type of administrative action based upon the operator's or prospective operator's written response in accordance with Paragraph (d) of this Rule. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/24/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 3/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the March 18, 2025, complaint/unannounced visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. I completed a walkthrough of the center with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1, a classroom for school-age children, there were no children present. In space 2a, a classroom for infant/toddler children, I observed one (1) sleeping infant, and I observed a teacher holding an infant (rocking in a rocking-chair). There were three (3) children observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 2b was observed closed. In space 3a and space 3b, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 4 (Meck. Pre-K) were observed participating in small group time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. In space 5, a classroom for two (2) year-old and three (3) year-old children, I observed children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. A violation was cited for an outlet cover. The children in space 6, a classroom for three (3) and four (4) year-old children, were observed having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The following violations documented during the March 18, 2025, visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: Item #904-Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. During the visit, I did not observe any children handled roughly; violation corrected. Item #902-Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children during today's visit; violation corrected. Item #1757-A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A criminal qualifying letter was not on file for Ms. Taylor (therapist). During today's visit the therapist has a current qualifying letter on file; violation corrected. Item #1876-A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. I did not observe children yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied during the visit; violation corrected. Item #1877-A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). I did not observe any children restrained during the visit; violation was corrected. One violation was cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An outlet cover near the classroom door was uncovered in space 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) -On March 20, 2025, a Staff Meeting was held from 6:00-7:30 p.m.; a copy of the meeting agenda was reviewed during today's visit. Positive guidance, redirection, verbiage/tone were discussed during the meeting. Ms. Hedgepeth reviewed the March 18, 2025, visit summary with staff during the staff meeting. -Staff members have completed the online training, Foundations of Positive Guidance Training on March 20, 2025, and two (2) staff members completed the training on March 24, 2025; two (2) staff members are pending completion of the training. -An Administrative Action may be issued. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, located in space used by children must have safety outlets or covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child(ren) (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c)). -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -Ms. Hedgepeth inquired about the possibility of receiving an Administrative Action and she was provided the following information and the information was discussed according to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201(a-e): (a) Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. The administrative actions include: (1) a written reprimand as set forth in Rule .2202 of this Section; (2) a written warning as set forth in Rule .2203 of this Section; (3) a provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2204 of this Section; (4) a special provisional child care facility license or special provisional notice of compliance not to exceed six months and may include a limited enrollment restriction as set forth in Rule .2207 of this Section; (5) a probationary child care facility license or probationary notice of compliance not to exceed 12 months as set forth in Rule .2205 of this Section; (6) revocation of the child care facility license, or an order to cease operation to operate a child care facility as set forth in Rule .2209 of this Section; (7) summary suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility that results in immediate closure of the facility as set forth in Rule .2213 of this Section; (8) denial of an application or child care facility license as set forth in Rule .2215 of this Section; and (9) suspension of the child care facility license, notice of compliance, or other permit to operate a child care facility not to exceed 12 months and results in closure of the facility on the date of the order as set forth in Rule .2206 of this Section. (b) The Division shall consider the following factors when determining whether to issue an administrative action or what type of administrative action to be issued, including: (1) the severity of the violation or incident; (2) the probability of recurrence of the violation or incident; (3) all prior administrative actions issued to the facility; (4) all prior incidents where the Division has determined that abuse, neglect, or child maltreatment occurred at the facility; (5) the operator's response to the violation or incident, including actions taken to prevent recurrence, such as revision to facility policies and procedures or additional staff training; (6) a self-report of the violation or incident was submitted to the Division by the operator; and (7) information or records received from local, State, or federal agencies relevant to the violation or incident. (c) For purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply: (1) "Pattern of noncompliance" means violations of G.S. 110, Article 7, this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10 documented during a time period of 18 months or less involving situations or incidents for which technical assistance has been provided and the operator continues to demonstrate noncompliance. (2) "Harm" as referenced in G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) means: (A) physical, psychological, or emotional injury to a child by a caregiver; (B) an act of omission or commission to a child by a caregiver that is likely to result in or that results in permanent limitations or disability; (C) sexual abuse; or (D) the death of a child. (d) In accordance with G.S. 150B-3(b) the Division shall issue a prior notice of administrative action to the operator or prospective operator regarding the determination to issue a provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, special provisional child care facility license or notice of compliance, probationary child care facility license or notice of compliance, revocation of the child care facility license, order to cease operation, suspension of the child care facility license or notice of compliance, or denial of a child care facility license or notice of compliance. The operator or prospective operator shall be given an opportunity to respond in writing as to why the administrative action should not be taken. The written response shall be submitted to the Division within 15 days of receiving the prior notice of administrative action. Upon receiving a written request from an owner or operator, the Division shall grant an extension of time not to exceed an additional 15 days, so long as the request is received before the initial response time has ended. (e) The Division may issue a different type of administrative action based upon the operator's or prospective operator's written response in accordance with Paragraph (d) of this Rule. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Allegations were made to the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on March 10, 2025 and on March 11, 2025. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that: -Inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) -Children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. (Disrespectful tone, arguing) I was greeted by the Toddler Teacher, Ms. Donna Williams, and the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Hedgepeth was informed of the allegations. I completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1 I observed the children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 2 were observed completing an art activity. I observed a child that was visibly upset (crying) being comforted by a teacher from space 2. I observed a child yelled at while the children in space 2 were transitioning from the outdoor play area. In space 3a, I observed infant children being cared for according to their individual needed. I observed infants having supervised "tummy-time." Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, was observed having free choice time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. I observed the children in space 5 beginning an art activity. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 6 was observed closed. The space was being used during the visit for children that receive therapy. I observed a Speech Therapist, Ms. Addie Taylor, working with a child from space 2. An Afterschool Teacher, Ms. Karen Valentine was present in the room while Ms. Taylor worked with a child. A violation was cited, because Ms. Taylor did not have a criminal qualifying letter on file. The allegation was made that inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, staff stated that a child from space 1, a classroom for toddler children, was placed in a crib, because the child was crying. During staff interviews, a staff member stated that children from space 2, a classroom for three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children, were placed in a crib, when children (three (3) and four (4) year-olds) were upset and crying. Based on the allegation that inappropriate discipline was used was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for children restrained as a form of discipline. Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, a teacher in space 2 was placed on leave (not present during the visit) due to disciplinary action with the center, because of the teachers actions. The staff was placed on leave due to the teachers tone with children, and for grabbing a child by their arm. Staff expressed during interviews that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. According to staff, children have been spoken to in an aggressive, harsh, and disrespectful tones, and that staff have handled children roughly by grabbing children by their arm. Based on the allegation that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner (disrespectful tone, arguing) was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for a child being handled roughly. Four (4) violations were cited; only two (2) of the violations cited during the visit were unrelated to the allegations of the report. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. .1803(a)(1) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk.-Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). .1803(a)(10) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -A resource, Healthy Social Behaviors Project was emailed to the Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project supports teachers to develop pro-social early childhood learning environments that helps to prevent suspension and expulsion, as related to challenging behaviors. Ms. Hedgepeth contacted a coordinator with the Health Social Behaviors Project during the visit. Also, Ms. Hedgepeth had previously addressed staff behaviors, such as teacher's tones with children. -Children should not be handled roughly; no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a) (1)). -A valid qualification letter must on file and available to review at the facility. A letter must be on file for therapist that working independently with children (G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)). -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. A copy of the memo explaining CDSA staff was emailed to Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -During staff interviews, staff stated that children are combined later in the afternoons. When combining age groups, the staff/child ratio for the youngest child in the group must be maintained for the entire group (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(1)). -The staff/child ratio for the youngest child must be maintained when children of all ages are cared for together in groups for the first and last operating hour of the day (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a) (2)). -Continue to place sleeping infants initially on their back for sleeping (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1)(A-B)). The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Allegations were made to the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on March 10, 2025 and on March 11, 2025. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that: -Inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) -Children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. (Disrespectful tone, arguing) I was greeted by the Toddler Teacher, Ms. Donna Williams, and the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Hedgepeth was informed of the allegations. I completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1 I observed the children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 2 were observed completing an art activity. I observed a child that was visibly upset (crying) being comforted by a teacher from space 2. I observed a child yelled at while the children in space 2 were transitioning from the outdoor play area. In space 3a, I observed infant children being cared for according to their individual needed. I observed infants having supervised "tummy-time." Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, was observed having free choice time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. I observed the children in space 5 beginning an art activity. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 6 was observed closed. The space was being used during the visit for children that receive therapy. I observed a Speech Therapist, Ms. Addie Taylor, working with a child from space 2. An Afterschool Teacher, Ms. Karen Valentine was present in the room while Ms. Taylor worked with a child. A violation was cited, because Ms. Taylor did not have a criminal qualifying letter on file. The allegation was made that inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, staff stated that a child from space 1, a classroom for toddler children, was placed in a crib, because the child was crying. During staff interviews, a staff member stated that children from space 2, a classroom for three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children, were placed in a crib, when children (three (3) and four (4) year-olds) were upset and crying. Based on the allegation that inappropriate discipline was used was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for children restrained as a form of discipline. Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, a teacher in space 2 was placed on leave (not present during the visit) due to disciplinary action with the center, because of the teachers actions. The staff was placed on leave due to the teachers tone with children, and for grabbing a child by their arm. Staff expressed during interviews that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. According to staff, children have been spoken to in an aggressive, harsh, and disrespectful tones, and that staff have handled children roughly by grabbing children by their arm. Based on the allegation that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner (disrespectful tone, arguing) was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for a child being handled roughly. Four (4) violations were cited; only two (2) of the violations cited during the visit were unrelated to the allegations of the report. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. .1803(a)(1) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk.-Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). .1803(a)(10) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -A resource, Healthy Social Behaviors Project was emailed to the Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project supports teachers to develop pro-social early childhood learning environments that helps to prevent suspension and expulsion, as related to challenging behaviors. Ms. Hedgepeth contacted a coordinator with the Health Social Behaviors Project during the visit. Also, Ms. Hedgepeth had previously addressed staff behaviors, such as teacher's tones with children. -Children should not be handled roughly; no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a) (1)). -A valid qualification letter must on file and available to review at the facility. A letter must be on file for therapist that working independently with children (G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)). -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. A copy of the memo explaining CDSA staff was emailed to Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -During staff interviews, staff stated that children are combined later in the afternoons. When combining age groups, the staff/child ratio for the youngest child in the group must be maintained for the entire group (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(1)). -The staff/child ratio for the youngest child must be maintained when children of all ages are cared for together in groups for the first and last operating hour of the day (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a) (2)). -Continue to place sleeping infants initially on their back for sleeping (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1)(A-B)). The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0713 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Allegations were made to the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on March 10, 2025 and on March 11, 2025. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that: -Inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) -Children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. (Disrespectful tone, arguing) I was greeted by the Toddler Teacher, Ms. Donna Williams, and the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Hedgepeth was informed of the allegations. I completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1 I observed the children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 2 were observed completing an art activity. I observed a child that was visibly upset (crying) being comforted by a teacher from space 2. I observed a child yelled at while the children in space 2 were transitioning from the outdoor play area. In space 3a, I observed infant children being cared for according to their individual needed. I observed infants having supervised "tummy-time." Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, was observed having free choice time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. I observed the children in space 5 beginning an art activity. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 6 was observed closed. The space was being used during the visit for children that receive therapy. I observed a Speech Therapist, Ms. Addie Taylor, working with a child from space 2. An Afterschool Teacher, Ms. Karen Valentine was present in the room while Ms. Taylor worked with a child. A violation was cited, because Ms. Taylor did not have a criminal qualifying letter on file. The allegation was made that inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, staff stated that a child from space 1, a classroom for toddler children, was placed in a crib, because the child was crying. During staff interviews, a staff member stated that children from space 2, a classroom for three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children, were placed in a crib, when children (three (3) and four (4) year-olds) were upset and crying. Based on the allegation that inappropriate discipline was used was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for children restrained as a form of discipline. Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, a teacher in space 2 was placed on leave (not present during the visit) due to disciplinary action with the center, because of the teachers actions. The staff was placed on leave due to the teachers tone with children, and for grabbing a child by their arm. Staff expressed during interviews that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. According to staff, children have been spoken to in an aggressive, harsh, and disrespectful tones, and that staff have handled children roughly by grabbing children by their arm. Based on the allegation that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner (disrespectful tone, arguing) was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for a child being handled roughly. Four (4) violations were cited; only two (2) of the violations cited during the visit were unrelated to the allegations of the report. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. .1803(a)(1) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk.-Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). .1803(a)(10) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -A resource, Healthy Social Behaviors Project was emailed to the Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project supports teachers to develop pro-social early childhood learning environments that helps to prevent suspension and expulsion, as related to challenging behaviors. Ms. Hedgepeth contacted a coordinator with the Health Social Behaviors Project during the visit. Also, Ms. Hedgepeth had previously addressed staff behaviors, such as teacher's tones with children. -Children should not be handled roughly; no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a) (1)). -A valid qualification letter must on file and available to review at the facility. A letter must be on file for therapist that working independently with children (G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)). -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. A copy of the memo explaining CDSA staff was emailed to Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -During staff interviews, staff stated that children are combined later in the afternoons. When combining age groups, the staff/child ratio for the youngest child in the group must be maintained for the entire group (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(1)). -The staff/child ratio for the youngest child must be maintained when children of all ages are cared for together in groups for the first and last operating hour of the day (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a) (2)). -Continue to place sleeping infants initially on their back for sleeping (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1)(A-B)). The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1803 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Allegations were made to the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on March 10, 2025 and on March 11, 2025. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that: -Inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) -Children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. (Disrespectful tone, arguing) I was greeted by the Toddler Teacher, Ms. Donna Williams, and the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Hedgepeth was informed of the allegations. I completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1 I observed the children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 2 were observed completing an art activity. I observed a child that was visibly upset (crying) being comforted by a teacher from space 2. I observed a child yelled at while the children in space 2 were transitioning from the outdoor play area. In space 3a, I observed infant children being cared for according to their individual needed. I observed infants having supervised "tummy-time." Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, was observed having free choice time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. I observed the children in space 5 beginning an art activity. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 6 was observed closed. The space was being used during the visit for children that receive therapy. I observed a Speech Therapist, Ms. Addie Taylor, working with a child from space 2. An Afterschool Teacher, Ms. Karen Valentine was present in the room while Ms. Taylor worked with a child. A violation was cited, because Ms. Taylor did not have a criminal qualifying letter on file. The allegation was made that inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, staff stated that a child from space 1, a classroom for toddler children, was placed in a crib, because the child was crying. During staff interviews, a staff member stated that children from space 2, a classroom for three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children, were placed in a crib, when children (three (3) and four (4) year-olds) were upset and crying. Based on the allegation that inappropriate discipline was used was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for children restrained as a form of discipline. Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, a teacher in space 2 was placed on leave (not present during the visit) due to disciplinary action with the center, because of the teachers actions. The staff was placed on leave due to the teachers tone with children, and for grabbing a child by their arm. Staff expressed during interviews that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. According to staff, children have been spoken to in an aggressive, harsh, and disrespectful tones, and that staff have handled children roughly by grabbing children by their arm. Based on the allegation that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner (disrespectful tone, arguing) was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for a child being handled roughly. Four (4) violations were cited; only two (2) of the violations cited during the visit were unrelated to the allegations of the report. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. .1803(a)(1) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk.-Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). .1803(a)(10) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -A resource, Healthy Social Behaviors Project was emailed to the Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project supports teachers to develop pro-social early childhood learning environments that helps to prevent suspension and expulsion, as related to challenging behaviors. Ms. Hedgepeth contacted a coordinator with the Health Social Behaviors Project during the visit. Also, Ms. Hedgepeth had previously addressed staff behaviors, such as teacher's tones with children. -Children should not be handled roughly; no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a) (1)). -A valid qualification letter must on file and available to review at the facility. A letter must be on file for therapist that working independently with children (G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)). -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. A copy of the memo explaining CDSA staff was emailed to Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -During staff interviews, staff stated that children are combined later in the afternoons. When combining age groups, the staff/child ratio for the youngest child in the group must be maintained for the entire group (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(1)). -The staff/child ratio for the youngest child must be maintained when children of all ages are cared for together in groups for the first and last operating hour of the day (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a) (2)). -Continue to place sleeping infants initially on their back for sleeping (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1)(A-B)). The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Allegations were made to the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on March 10, 2025 and on March 11, 2025. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that: -Inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) -Children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. (Disrespectful tone, arguing) I was greeted by the Toddler Teacher, Ms. Donna Williams, and the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Hedgepeth was informed of the allegations. I completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1 I observed the children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 2 were observed completing an art activity. I observed a child that was visibly upset (crying) being comforted by a teacher from space 2. I observed a child yelled at while the children in space 2 were transitioning from the outdoor play area. In space 3a, I observed infant children being cared for according to their individual needed. I observed infants having supervised "tummy-time." Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, was observed having free choice time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. I observed the children in space 5 beginning an art activity. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 6 was observed closed. The space was being used during the visit for children that receive therapy. I observed a Speech Therapist, Ms. Addie Taylor, working with a child from space 2. An Afterschool Teacher, Ms. Karen Valentine was present in the room while Ms. Taylor worked with a child. A violation was cited, because Ms. Taylor did not have a criminal qualifying letter on file. The allegation was made that inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, staff stated that a child from space 1, a classroom for toddler children, was placed in a crib, because the child was crying. During staff interviews, a staff member stated that children from space 2, a classroom for three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children, were placed in a crib, when children (three (3) and four (4) year-olds) were upset and crying. Based on the allegation that inappropriate discipline was used was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for children restrained as a form of discipline. Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, a teacher in space 2 was placed on leave (not present during the visit) due to disciplinary action with the center, because of the teachers actions. The staff was placed on leave due to the teachers tone with children, and for grabbing a child by their arm. Staff expressed during interviews that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. According to staff, children have been spoken to in an aggressive, harsh, and disrespectful tones, and that staff have handled children roughly by grabbing children by their arm. Based on the allegation that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner (disrespectful tone, arguing) was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for a child being handled roughly. Four (4) violations were cited; only two (2) of the violations cited during the visit were unrelated to the allegations of the report. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. .1803(a)(1) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk.-Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). .1803(a)(10) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -A resource, Healthy Social Behaviors Project was emailed to the Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project supports teachers to develop pro-social early childhood learning environments that helps to prevent suspension and expulsion, as related to challenging behaviors. Ms. Hedgepeth contacted a coordinator with the Health Social Behaviors Project during the visit. Also, Ms. Hedgepeth had previously addressed staff behaviors, such as teacher's tones with children. -Children should not be handled roughly; no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a) (1)). -A valid qualification letter must on file and available to review at the facility. A letter must be on file for therapist that working independently with children (G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)). -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. A copy of the memo explaining CDSA staff was emailed to Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -During staff interviews, staff stated that children are combined later in the afternoons. When combining age groups, the staff/child ratio for the youngest child in the group must be maintained for the entire group (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(1)). -The staff/child ratio for the youngest child must be maintained when children of all ages are cared for together in groups for the first and last operating hour of the day (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a) (2)). -Continue to place sleeping infants initially on their back for sleeping (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1)(A-B)). The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Allegations were made to the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on March 10, 2025 and on March 11, 2025. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that: -Inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) -Children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. (Disrespectful tone, arguing) I was greeted by the Toddler Teacher, Ms. Donna Williams, and the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Hedgepeth was informed of the allegations. I completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1 I observed the children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 2 were observed completing an art activity. I observed a child that was visibly upset (crying) being comforted by a teacher from space 2. I observed a child yelled at while the children in space 2 were transitioning from the outdoor play area. In space 3a, I observed infant children being cared for according to their individual needed. I observed infants having supervised "tummy-time." Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, was observed having free choice time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. I observed the children in space 5 beginning an art activity. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 6 was observed closed. The space was being used during the visit for children that receive therapy. I observed a Speech Therapist, Ms. Addie Taylor, working with a child from space 2. An Afterschool Teacher, Ms. Karen Valentine was present in the room while Ms. Taylor worked with a child. A violation was cited, because Ms. Taylor did not have a criminal qualifying letter on file. The allegation was made that inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, staff stated that a child from space 1, a classroom for toddler children, was placed in a crib, because the child was crying. During staff interviews, a staff member stated that children from space 2, a classroom for three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children, were placed in a crib, when children (three (3) and four (4) year-olds) were upset and crying. Based on the allegation that inappropriate discipline was used was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for children restrained as a form of discipline. Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, a teacher in space 2 was placed on leave (not present during the visit) due to disciplinary action with the center, because of the teachers actions. The staff was placed on leave due to the teachers tone with children, and for grabbing a child by their arm. Staff expressed during interviews that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. According to staff, children have been spoken to in an aggressive, harsh, and disrespectful tones, and that staff have handled children roughly by grabbing children by their arm. Based on the allegation that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner (disrespectful tone, arguing) was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for a child being handled roughly. Four (4) violations were cited; only two (2) of the violations cited during the visit were unrelated to the allegations of the report. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. .1803(a)(1) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk.-Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). .1803(a)(10) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -A resource, Healthy Social Behaviors Project was emailed to the Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project supports teachers to develop pro-social early childhood learning environments that helps to prevent suspension and expulsion, as related to challenging behaviors. Ms. Hedgepeth contacted a coordinator with the Health Social Behaviors Project during the visit. Also, Ms. Hedgepeth had previously addressed staff behaviors, such as teacher's tones with children. -Children should not be handled roughly; no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a) (1)). -A valid qualification letter must on file and available to review at the facility. A letter must be on file for therapist that working independently with children (G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)). -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. A copy of the memo explaining CDSA staff was emailed to Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -During staff interviews, staff stated that children are combined later in the afternoons. When combining age groups, the staff/child ratio for the youngest child in the group must be maintained for the entire group (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(1)). -The staff/child ratio for the youngest child must be maintained when children of all ages are cared for together in groups for the first and last operating hour of the day (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a) (2)). -Continue to place sleeping infants initially on their back for sleeping (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1)(A-B)). The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-118L Visit Date: 3/18/2025 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 3/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Allegations were made to the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on March 10, 2025 and on March 11, 2025. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns that: -Inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) -Children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. (Disrespectful tone, arguing) I was greeted by the Toddler Teacher, Ms. Donna Williams, and the Director, Ms. Shikerra Hedgepeth, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Hedgepeth was informed of the allegations. I completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Hedgepeth. In space 1 I observed the children having supervised independent play. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. The children in space 2 were observed completing an art activity. I observed a child that was visibly upset (crying) being comforted by a teacher from space 2. I observed a child yelled at while the children in space 2 were transitioning from the outdoor play area. In space 3a, I observed infant children being cared for according to their individual needed. I observed infants having supervised "tummy-time." Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 3b was observed closed. The children in space 4, a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, was observed having free choice time. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. I observed the children in space 5 beginning an art activity. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children. Space 6 was observed closed. The space was being used during the visit for children that receive therapy. I observed a Speech Therapist, Ms. Addie Taylor, working with a child from space 2. An Afterschool Teacher, Ms. Karen Valentine was present in the room while Ms. Taylor worked with a child. A violation was cited, because Ms. Taylor did not have a criminal qualifying letter on file. The allegation was made that inappropriate discipline was used. (Four-year-old child was placed in a crib.) Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, staff stated that a child from space 1, a classroom for toddler children, was placed in a crib, because the child was crying. During staff interviews, a staff member stated that children from space 2, a classroom for three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children, were placed in a crib, when children (three (3) and four (4) year-olds) were upset and crying. Based on the allegation that inappropriate discipline was used was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for children restrained as a form of discipline. Staff were interviewed. Based on interviews with staff, a teacher in space 2 was placed on leave (not present during the visit) due to disciplinary action with the center, because of the teachers actions. The staff was placed on leave due to the teachers tone with children, and for grabbing a child by their arm. Staff expressed during interviews that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. According to staff, children have been spoken to in an aggressive, harsh, and disrespectful tones, and that staff have handled children roughly by grabbing children by their arm. Based on the allegation that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner (disrespectful tone, arguing) was SUBSTANTIATED. A violation was cited for a child being handled roughly. Four (4) violations were cited; only two (2) of the violations cited during the visit were unrelated to the allegations of the report. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Based on staff interviews, children were not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner; aggressive tone, harsh tones, and disrespectful tones used with children. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. Based on staff interviews, a child was handled roughly; children grabbed by their arm. .1803(a)(1) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A child in space 2 was yelled at in the outdoor play area, when the children were preparing to return to the classroom. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk.-Based on staff interviews, children (a toddler, three (3) year-old and four (4) year-old children) have been placed in cribs when children were upset (crying). .1803(a)(10) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Children must be cared for in a nurturing manner. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs (G.S. 110-91(10)). -Children should not be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied (Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(9)). -Children should not be restrained as a form of discipline (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a)(10)). -A resource, Healthy Social Behaviors Project was emailed to the Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project supports teachers to develop pro-social early childhood learning environments that helps to prevent suspension and expulsion, as related to challenging behaviors. Ms. Hedgepeth contacted a coordinator with the Health Social Behaviors Project during the visit. Also, Ms. Hedgepeth had previously addressed staff behaviors, such as teacher's tones with children. -Children should not be handled roughly; no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803(a) (1)). -A valid qualification letter must on file and available to review at the facility. A letter must be on file for therapist that working independently with children (G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e)). -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. A copy of the memo explaining CDSA staff was emailed to Ms. Hedgepeth during the visit. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five (5) business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. -During staff interviews, staff stated that children are combined later in the afternoons. When combining age groups, the staff/child ratio for the youngest child in the group must be maintained for the entire group (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(1)). -The staff/child ratio for the youngest child must be maintained when children of all ages are cared for together in groups for the first and last operating hour of the day (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a) (2)). -Continue to place sleeping infants initially on their back for sleeping (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1)(A-B)). The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #53 Facility ID: 60004337 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/15/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 5/15/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to provide technical assistance and monitor compliance with all applicable child care center requirements. The facility’s temporary license was issued on May 1, 2024, as the result of a change of ownership. The August 2023 version of the Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the Change of Ownership Licensing Checklist was used to monitor compliance. This was the first visit during the facility’s temporary license period. Administrators Williams and Diamon Adams was present upon my arrival. Ms. Adams was walking through the building with sanitation inspectors. Ms. Williams accompanied me as we monitored all six (6) classrooms. In the infant room, one infant was observed playing with the caregivers. Teachers were engaged with the infant. Safe Sleep Charts and feeding schedules were found in compliance. Children were observed in circle time and teacher directed activities. The activity centers had age-appropriate materials accessible to the children. The staff were observed actively engaged in the children’s activities and their interactions were very nurturing. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. In space #1 where block center is located, the floor has a dirty, sticky residue. On the toddler playground there is erosion, and it is causing an unsafe tripping/falling hazard. The erosion in front of the wooden board that is used to keep mulch from washing away. A sampling of staff and children’s files were monitored and found in compliance. Program records were found in compliance. The EPR plan will need to be completed for the new facility ID#. This needs to be completed before September 1, 2024. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – A termination letter was given to Ms. Adams during today’s visit. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. Once the fire and sanitation inspections have been completed, Ms. Adams can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. Two (2) violations were cited and discussed with Ms. Williams and Ms. Adams. Regulatory was down and prevented me from entering today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 603 All floors and floor coverings were not constructed of nonabsorbent material and/or were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #1 where block center is located, the floor has a dirty, sticky residue. 15A NCAC 18A .2824(a)&(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. ) On the toddler playground there is erosion, and it is causing an unsafe tripping/falling hazard. The erosion in front of the wooden board that is used to keep mulch from washing away. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Corrective Action The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Adams will submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before May 29, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: The facility uses the tablet and written attendance sheets, we discussed that we only require one not both, however if they are using both it is important that the two match, to ensure the staff know the correct number of children present. It was discussed that the facility has a work order in for new tarps for the playground. Administrators and I discussed that all program records and staff file have a start date of May 1, 2024. The staff will need to complete all Health & Safety courses within the first year. Recognizing and responding need to be completed within 90 days. If any staff members have completed the Health & Safety course since May 1, 2023, they will not need to take the training again. Administrative, Operational and Personnel Policies – The previously approved policies are still being used and no changes have been made. Please emailed the facility’s policies to me for approval. I will review them and let her know if any revisions are needed. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – I discussed with Ms. Adams the options for the Star Rated License. If you want to request the Environment Rating Scale Assessments (ERS) during the temporary time period, which needs to be requested by June 1, 2024, or during the hold harmless period, programs undergoing a change of ownership are able to transition at the end of their temporary license to the star rating level the previous owner or location had. Wherever that previous program was in the cohort plan, is where the new facility will be expected to have a reassessment. The previous program was in cohort 1. The facility will need to have the scales completed between July 1, 2024- June 30, 2025. Ms. Adams will discuss this with her district manager. Ms. Adams stated she has children enrolled who receive subsidized children care. She understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. Ms. Adam’s responsibility to use the information discussed during today’s visit and contained in this visit summary report to assure the classrooms, staff/children’s records and all other operating requirements are compliant with the NC Child Care Requirements at all times. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or I can help you with anything please free to contact me at 704-936-6065, or email me at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times